Local energy efficiency company Enermatics is implementing energy consumption data visibility to help users better understand their energy usage.
Enermatics' locally-developed and manufactured system comprises smart meters (prepaid or postpaid), which send their consumption data to an online data platform every 30 minutes, explains Loutjie Meyer, GM at Enermatics. This allows users to view a comprehensive history, updated every half-hour, of the energy consumption from each meter they own, Meyer explains.
Depending on the meter installed, users may also be able to view one electricity load separately from the meter's main load, for example that of a hot water geyser or swimming pool heating system, he adds.
The Wattkeeper smart energy management system is of particular use in residential and commercial properties (such as office or housing complexes) in which landlords need to divide electricity bills fairly and between multiple tenants in accordance with their individual usage, says Meyer, noting it is certified for billing use in residential and commercial contexts. The system allows for billing to be integrated into financial systems with minimal software programming, adds Heinrich Venter, director at Enermatics.
"Electricity is becoming an ever-increasing operating cost due to significant price increases and rapid growth in energy demand," says Venter. "This places an extra pressure on businesses, with government mandates to significantly reduce energy consumption. South African businesses are required to better understand the impact that energy usage has on production and operating costs," he adds. "This involves gaining accurate knowledge on how much energy is consumed and where it is consumed."
In addition, more informed electricity management can help businesses curb their carbon footprints, says Meyer.
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